Barbara,

Just as second babies are sent with big differences from their siblings 
to teach us that we didn't learn everything there is to know with the 
first child, I believe that grand-children are sent with challenges to 
remind us how important and how difficult the work of mothering is...

No magic bullets here, but I was thinking that this sounds like the kind 
of behaviour that would have sent mothers off to their friends telling 
them their babies had weaned themselves. I used to find 6 - 9 months was 
a peak period for boredom and frustration, and that nothing works for 
long. Nursing sessions, naps etc. can all get pretty short.

Is the baby eating solid foods? If so, I would suggest nursing before 
*and* after solids; some babies continue to eat in an attempt to soothe 
and comfort themselves; breastfeeding when the baby's not hungry can be 
helpful.

You mentioned that the baby nursed when sleepy, and night-time nursings 
are sometimes easier to "retrieve." Also, just holding the baby against 
a bare breast at night can perk up his appetite...

If I were talking to the mother on the phone, I'd be asking: "Has 
anything else significant happened recently?" (Holidays, maybe??) Is it 
possible that the baby has had too much excitement and needs some time 
alone with mom? Will he agree to go to bed early with mom or lounge 
around in the morning?

Good luck!

Jo-Anne

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